A bit about me . . .

I mentioned on the opening page of this website that the camera we used in our house was a Brownie Hawkeye. I sort of inherited that camera and began to use it. I took it on a high school band trip to New Orleans in 1971. Took pictures of a couple of music legends with that camera, trumpet player Al Hirt and Pete Fountain. I Probably almost blinded them with the huge "bowl" flash and flashbulbs that attached to the camera (click on this link for "Brownie Hawkeye"and you'll see what I mean). The next year I got my first "real" camera and got down to the business trying my hand at photography. Documenting life events were most important then. Creativity would come later with better cameras, lenses, time and experience.

I joined the Navy in 1975 and served as the command photographer and illustrator at the Naval Regional Medical Center in Millington, TN. After my service, I returned to my hometown, Dallas, Texas and worked at E-Systems/Raytheon and later as a contract worker for Atlantic Richfield Company.

I am currently employed at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical School as a photographer and graphics designer. I've been fortunate to have studied design under the instruction of renowned Texas artist, DavidBates. In 2008, with the help of my wife Suzann, I released a self-published book entitled"Unto the Least . . ."documenting the work of Pastor Jimmy Dorrell's ministry to the homeless at the Church Under the Bridge in Waco, Texas. Select photos can be viewed and the title song "Unto the Least of These" by Bob Bennett, can be heard on the "Unto theLeast . . ." gallery page.

In addition to photography and design, I enjoy playing music and singing. My wife, Suzann, and I have performed at numerous coffee-houses and bookstore venues over the years and have served as worship leaders in several churches.

I wanted to give a nod to my amazing family, parents Wayne and Ruth Smith and my sister Angie. Especially to my lovely wife, Suzann who has been invaluable in her support of my creative pursuits and to our two wonderfully gifted and precious children, Gabriel and Savannah.

Thank you for taking time out of your day to explore thephotos on this site.Time is the most valuable commodity that we have, for once given, it can never be repaid. I wanted to extend my appreciation to my family and friends like you who have always been such a source of support and encouragement. In December of 2013, I unexpectedly lost my long-time picture buddy, John Brasher, at the age of 54. John was always up for a late night photo excursion. Many of the pictures on this site were taken on our outings. I will miss his friendship and companionship dearly. Finally, eternal thanks to my Savior, Jesus Christ - the ultimate creative, who, with a breath spoke everything into existence and has chosen to invite us to join Him in the creative process by giving us life, the "palette" with which He can "paint" our story. The magnificent picture of our lives. Blessings to you my friends. Keep in touch! --- Mark W. Smith